The Gihon Foundation was established in 1978 as a private operating foundation by Bette C. Graham, the inventor of Liquid Paper correction fluid. The foundation, named for the Gihon River mentioned in the Old Testament (Genesis 2:10-14), is governed by a four member board of trustees, headed by Ms. Graham’s son, Michael Nesmith. The pursuit of entrepreneurial philanthropy (taking an idea and developing it for the public good) has been the purpose of the Gihon Foundation since its inception.

The Gihon Foundation operates the Council on Ideas, a biennial forum which meets to identify and articulate a critical issue that is currently facing society. We invite you to read and copy the Council on Ideas Position Statements from 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 2000 as well as learn more about the backgrounds of each of the Council’s distinguished members.

The Gihon Foundation also houses a permanent art collection entitled “Works By Women.” Please take the time to browse and enjoy our remarkable art collection. The Mary Cassatt Poster is now available for purchase.